Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy is a type of medical imaging that shows a continuous x-ray image on a monitor, much like an x-ray movie. During a fluoroscopy procedure, an x-ray beam is passed through the body.

Arthrogram

An arthogram is a study of joint spaces. Following the use of local anesthetic contrast material and/or air is injected into the joint space. Several images will be taken. After your examination is completed, the contrast material will be completely absorbed in 24 to 48 hours. The radiologist recommends that your activity be limited for 24 hours after the exam. Please bring any images of the joint to be examined which have been taken in the last six months.

Preparation:
No preparation necessary. Bring previous related x-rays to the appointment.

Barium Enema

A barium enema is an examination of your large intestine. A tube will be placed in your rectum, and barium and air will be instilled through the tube to fill the intestine. Several images will then be obtained. To insure a satisfactory study it is necessary that your bowel be entirely free of fecal material. To accomplish this, it is very important that the instructions be followed carefully and completely, and that no food or fluids other than those listed be substituted.

You may expect the laxative to begin its cleaning action approximately three to eight hours after you take it.

Preparation:
The day BEFORE the examination Patients must stop by the hospital and pick up an EVAC-Q-KWIK Kit and instructions for the 24 hour bowel prep.

Cystourethrogram Void

Preparation:
No preparation necessary.

Esophagram

An Esophagram is an examination of your throat and esophagus. While you swallow the barium, the radiologist will observe on a fluoroscope and take a series of x-rays.

Preparation:
Nothing by mouth 2 hours prior to exam. A laxative may be taken following the exam to prevent constipation caused by the barium. Drink plenty of fluids after your exam.

Hysterosalpingogram

A hysterosalpingogram, or HSG, is an examination of the uterus and Fallopian tubes to evaluate for blockage, inflammation and other diseases. The radiologist places a speculum into the vagina. A small tube will be placed into the uterus and contrast material injected. The doctor will watch under fluoroscopy, and obtain images. After the examination is completed, some cramping and spotting may occur.

Preparation:
This appointment needs to be scheduled 7-10 days after the first day of a normal period. Do not have intercourse from the beginning of your menstrual period until the examination is completed.

IVP-Intravenous Pyelogram

An IVP is an examination which shows the urinary tract from the kidneys to the bladder. You will receive an injection of contrast material in your vein which will make the urinary tract visible on x-ray. The technologist will then take a series of images over the next several minutes.

Preparation:
Patients must stop by the hospital and pick up an EVAC-Q-KWIK Kit and instructions for the 24-hour bowel prep. If you are allergic to iodine you may need to be premedicated. If you are 70 years or older or diabetic you will need BUM and Creatinine results within the past 60 days.

Myelogram

Preparation:
Nothing to eat or drink 3 hours prior to the exam time. Arrive 1 hour prior to the exam time.

Small Bowel Series

This is a study to evaluate the small intestine. It may be performed on its own or after an upper gastrointentinal series. Barium is taken orally. A series of x-rays are taken as barium flows from the stomach. Through the small intestine, to the colon.

Preparation:
Do not eat, drink, chew gum or use tobacco after midnight the night before your exam. Continue any prescribed medications, but use as little water as possible. A laxative may be taken following the exam to prevent constipation caused by the barium. Drink plenty of fluids after your exam.

UGI Exams

This is a study of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum after drinking barium. The radiologist will observe a TV screen/fluoroscope while placing the patient in a variety of positions. Images are obtained during and after fluoroscopy.

Preparation:
Nothing to eat or drink from midnight to the exam time.